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10 Critical Thinking Questions to Ask in Any Situation: Enhance Your Decision-Making Skills

Critical thinking is an essential skill in today’s information-heavy world. It helps individuals navigate through vast amounts of data and determine what is accurate and useful. This article aims to provide you with key questions that can be used in any situation to enhance your critical thinking abilities.

Asking the right questions can empower you to evaluate information effectively and make better decisions. Whether it’s assessing news articles, evaluating work presentations, or deciding on personal matters, these questions will guide your thought process . By incorporating these into your daily routine , you can sharpen your analytical skills and gain a clearer understanding of various topics.

1) What are the underlying assumptions?

Underlying assumptions are beliefs we accept without proof. These can shape our decisions and views. They often go unnoticed yet influence our thoughts and actions significantly.

In critical thinking , recognizing these assumptions is crucial. They might be hidden but can affect how we understand information. For example, thinking all teenagers are tech-savvy is an assumption that might not always be true.

Assumptions can be based on personal experiences, cultural norms, or societal expectations. These assumptions can lead to bias if not examined. Challenging them helps in forming a clearer, more unbiased perspective.

A critical thinker asks what assumptions are being made. They evaluate if these beliefs are real or just presumed. By questioning underlying assumptions, one can uncover hidden biases and make more informed decisions.

For more about identifying assumptions, visit Critical Thinking and Academic Research .

2) How relevant is this information to the issue?

Whenever one faces a problem or decision, assessing how relevant the information is to the issue is crucial. It’s about filtering out noise and focusing on what truly matters.

Relevance helps in narrowing down the data, ensuring that only useful details are considered. This prevents distractions and keeps problem-solving on track.

It’s vital to ask whether the information directly impacts the decision or if it’s just peripheral. Recognize which details support the objective and which ones do not.

Relevance also impacts the quality of decisions. Using relevant information ensures more accurate and reliable outcomes.

Evaluating relevance involves looking at the direct connection between the facts and the issue. It requires critical thinking and the ability to discern what’s important .

3) What are the possible consequences?

Thinking about possible consequences can help make better decisions. This involves anticipating both positive and negative outcomes of an action.

It is crucial to consider how a decision will affect various aspects of life. For example, a choice made at work can impact both professional reputation and personal well-being.

Considering consequences also means thinking about short-term and long-term effects. Some decisions might bring immediate benefits but lead to problems later. Balancing these factors helps avoid unwanted surprises.

Understanding potential consequences can guide towards more responsible actions. One way to do this is by asking, “If I do this, what might happen next?” This approach fosters careful and deliberate decision-making.

For instance, if a student decides not to study, the immediate consequence might be more free time. However, the long-term consequence could be poor grades. Recognizing this helps in making informed choices.

It’s also important to think about consequences for others. Actions can affect family, friends, and colleagues. By considering these impacts, one can act more ethically and thoughtfully.

In any situation, weighing possible consequences ensures a more comprehensive understanding of potential outcomes. It promotes a balanced approach and reduces the risk of negative results.

4) What evidence supports this claim?

When evaluating a claim, it’s important to ask for evidence. Evidence can include data, statistics, expert opinions, or firsthand experiences. This helps to verify the truthfulness of the statement.

Having solid evidence makes an argument stronger. For example, in academic settings, using evidence to support your argument is crucial. It helps to convince others of your point of view.

In discussions or debates, asking for evidence forces clearer thinking. This can prevent the spread of misinformation. According to Harvard University , identifying a claim and seeking evidence creates a more informed dialogue.

Always consider the source of the evidence. Reputable sources are more reliable. This ensures that the evidence is valid and trustworthy. By consistently asking for and examining evidence, you can improve your critical thinking skills effectively.

Can this viewpoint be challenged?

When considering any viewpoint, it’s crucial to ask if it can be contested. This question opens the door to examining the strength and validity of the perspective.

By challenging a viewpoint, one can explore potential weaknesses or flaws. This process is essential in critical thinking , as it encourages deeper analysis and understanding.

For instance, in a debate, questioning the opposition’s view helps identify any assumptions or biases. This scrutiny can lead to a more balanced and fair discussion.

Additionally, examining opposing viewpoints provides a broader perspective. Recognizing that multiple perspectives exist fosters a more comprehensive grasp of the topic.

Moreover, considering alternative views encourages flexibility in thinking. It helps individuals avoid rigid or narrow-minded approaches.

Encouraging students to question can promote critical inquiry in educational settings. Asking “Can this viewpoint be challenged?” engages students in active learning and reflection.

To summarize, always ask if a viewpoint can be challenged. This question is key in fostering thoughtful and informed discussions.

For more questions that foster critical thinking, such as analyzing the relevance of information, you can explore resources like TeachThought’s list of questions .

6) What Are the Alternatives?

When faced with a decision, it’s important to ask, “What are the alternatives?” This question encourages you to consider other options and not just stick to the first idea that comes to mind.

Exploring alternatives can reveal better solutions that might not have been obvious initially. It widens the scope of possibilities and helps in finding the best possible choice.

Sometimes, the best option isn’t the most convenient one. Asking about alternatives encourages more thoughtful decision-making. It ensures that all potential paths are evaluated.

Considering alternatives can also help identify any potential risks or benefits not initially evident. This leads to more informed and balanced decisions.

For instance, if a manager needs to improve team productivity, they shouldn’t just implement the first suggested tool. They should think about various tools and methods, comparing their pros and cons.

Asking “What are the alternatives?” is a habit of strong critical thinkers. It ensures they are not limited by initial impressions and are open to different perspectives.

Tools like brainstorming sessions and mind maps can be helpful in identifying and evaluating alternatives. These methods ensure a thorough exploration of all possible options.

7) Who benefits from this?

When examining a situation, it’s key to identify who stands to gain.

Understanding who benefits helps uncover motivations. For example, if a new policy is implemented, ask who benefits from this . It could be companies, individuals, or specific groups.

Looking at all angles can provide clarity. Different stakeholders may have varying benefits. Some might gain financially, while others might receive social or political advantages.

Knowing the beneficiaries can also reveal any potential biases. If a project benefits only a small group, it might not serve the wider community well.

This question is essential because it digs deeper into the heart of the issue. It gets to the core of why certain actions are taken and who is truly advantaged.

8) What are the sources of bias?

Bias can stem from many areas. Personal opinions and values are common sources. If a person holds strong beliefs, these can color their judgment and decision-making.

Preconceived notions also play a big role. When someone has a fixed idea about something, they may ignore new information that contradicts their belief.

Cognitive biases are another source. These are mental shortcuts that affect how people process information. The Khan Academy explains that these can lead to errors in thinking.

Social biases, like racism or sexism, come from societal influences. These explicit biases can affect how someone views and treats others based on group identity.

Unconscious biases are hidden preferences that influence decisions without awareness. These implicit biases can be just as powerful as explicit ones.

External influences such as media and peers can also introduce bias. News sources and social circles can shape opinions and views, often without one noticing.

Understanding these sources can help in recognizing and mitigating bias in decision-making.

9) Is the argument logically sound?

A crucial step in critical thinking is to check if an argument is logically sound. A sound argument is one that is both valid and has true premises. Valid arguments have a structure where the conclusion follows logically from the premises.

If any premise of an argument is false, the argument cannot be sound. This means that even if the logic is valid, the argument fails because it is based on incorrect information. It’s important to verify the truth of each premise before accepting the conclusion.

One way to practice this is by asking if the premises logically lead to the conclusion without any gaps. For example, an argument that states, “All humans are mortal. Socrates is a human. Therefore, Socrates is mortal,” is sound because both premises are true and lead to a logical conclusion.

When evaluating arguments, look for common fallacies. These can include ad hominem attacks, false dilemmas, or appeals to authority. For instance, claiming a law is unconstitutional because a friend, who is a lawyer, said so might be an example of a fallacy .

In summary, ensuring an argument is logically sound involves checking both the validity of its structure and the truth of its premises. This helps in making informed decisions based on reliable reasoning.

10) What is the context of this situation?

Understanding the context of a situation is crucial for effective decision-making. Context includes the background and framework within which events occur. It helps identify the relationships between different elements in a scenario.

Context can include historical background. This involves looking at past events that might influence the current situation. Knowing what has happened before can provide insight into why things are the way they are now.

Another aspect of context is the environment. This means understanding the physical, social, or cultural setting. For example, a decision in a corporate environment may differ greatly from one made in a community-based setting.

Stakeholder perspectives also define the context. Understanding who is affected by the situation and what their interests are can guide more empathetic and effective choices. This includes considering the opinions, motivations, and potential biases of everyone involved.

Economic factors can be part of the context as well. Financial constraints or incentives often play a role in shaping decisions. Understanding the monetary aspects can lead to more informed and practical outcomes.

Lastly, legal and ethical considerations are essential. Rules, laws, and ethical norms provide boundaries within which decisions must be made. Ignoring these can lead to negative consequences.

Knowing the context ensures that decisions are not only well-informed but also sensitive to the broader environment and potential impacts. This comprehensive understanding can lead to better, more sustainable outcomes.

The Importance of Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is essential because it enhances decision-making and problem-solving skills. It impacts both personal growth and career development by fostering informed opinions and objective analysis.

Why Critical Thinking Skills Matter

Critical thinking allows individuals to analyze and break down complex issues. By asking better questions, people can make more informed decisions. It involves understanding and evaluating information rather than just accepting it. This skill helps in identifying biases and making logical connections. According to the Harvard Business Review , critical thinking is at the heart of problem-solving, enabling individuals to tackle challenges efficiently.

Impact on Personal and Professional Life

In personal life, critical thinking improves self-awareness and reduces limitations set by negative beliefs. This leads to better decision-making and a higher quality of life, as noted by the University of the People . Professionally, it is crucial for the economy and enhances skills like communication and presentation. Being able to think critically means considering all options and their potential impacts, which is valuable in any career. This approach leads to well-informed opinions and effective problem-solving strategies, making individuals indispensable in their fields.

Applying Critical Thinking in Various Contexts

Applying critical thinking helps individuals analyze information and make better decisions. It is useful in different areas such as work, education, and everyday life.

Critical Thinking at Work

In the workplace, critical thinking can improve problem-solving. Employees who evaluate situations carefully often find effective solutions. For instance, a manager might assess the root cause of a decline in sales before deciding on a strategy. This helps in making informed decisions.

Critical thinking also aids in teamwork. When team members question and discuss ideas, they develop better plans. For example, during a project, brainstorming sessions benefit from diverse opinions. This approach ensures that the final plan is robust and well-thought-out.

Employers value critical thinkers. These employees can foresee potential issues and address them proactively. They contribute to a more efficient and innovative work environment. Companies benefit from having staff who can handle complex situations thoughtfully.

Critical Thinking in Education

In education, critical thinking enhances learning. Students who question assumptions and analyze texts develop deeper understanding. For instance, when studying historical events, they evaluate causes and consequences, leading to a more comprehensive grasp of history.

Teachers encourage critical thinking through discussions and problem-based learning. Rather than just memorizing facts, students engage with the material. This active participation helps them retain information and apply it in real-world situations.

Critical thinking prepares students for future challenges. By learning to think critically, they become better equipped to tackle complex problems. This skill is essential for success in higher education and future careers.

Everyday Decision Making

Critical thinking is valuable in daily life. It helps individuals make better personal decisions. For example, before buying a product, a person might research reviews and compare prices. This careful evaluation ensures that they get the best value.

In health-related choices, critical thinking is crucial. Evaluating medical advice and considering all options lead to better health outcomes. For instance, understanding the benefits and risks of a medical procedure helps in making informed decisions.

It also aids in resolving conflicts. By considering different perspectives, individuals can find peaceful solutions. Critical thinking fosters empathy and understanding, making personal interactions more harmonious.

Enhancing Your Critical Thinking Abilities

Improving your critical thinking skills involves developing specific techniques and overcoming barriers that can hinder your progress.

Techniques for Improvement

One effective way to boost critical thinking is by asking open-ended questions. This can help uncover deeper insights and encourage detailed responses. Questions like “Why do you think this happened?” or “What are the possible outcomes?” can stimulate deeper thought.

Another technique is to engage in active listening. Focus on understanding the speaker’s point of view and consider the context before forming an opinion. This practice helps in evaluating information accurately.

It’s also useful to practice problem-solving regularly. Tackle puzzles, play strategy games, or engage in debates. These activities train the mind to think critically under different scenarios.

Finally, maintain a habit of continuous learning. Staying informed on various topics broadens your perspective, making it easier to analyze situations from multiple angles.

Overcoming Common Barriers

A major obstacle to critical thinking is cognitive bias. These biases can cloud judgment and lead to poor decisions. Being aware of common biases like confirmation bias or anchoring can help you recognize and counteract them.

Stress and time constraints can also hinder critical thinking. Practicing stress management techniques such as meditation or time management can create a more conducive environment for thoughtful analysis.

Another barrier is the lack of confidence. To overcome this, focus on building self-assurance through practice. Engaging in group discussions or seeking feedback can provide different perspectives and boost confidence.

Lastly, an unwillingness to challenge assumptions can impede critical thinking. Commit to questioning existing beliefs and explore alternative viewpoints, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of any situation.

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Critical thinking

200+ critical thinking questions.

“Judge a man by his questions rather than his answers.” – Voltaire As critical thinkers, it’s our job to question everything, instead of just blindly believing what we’re told, but what kinds of questions should we be asking though? What are the “right” questions to ask? In this article I’ve compiled a list of 200+ […]

“Judge a man by his questions rather than his answers.” – Voltaire

As critical thinkers, it’s our job to question everything, instead of just blindly believing what we’re told, but what kinds of questions should we be asking though?

What are the “right” questions to ask?

In this article I’ve compiled a list of 200+ of the very best critical thinking questions for almost any situation.

Critical thinking questions:

• If you’re presented with a claim

If you’re reading a book, listening to a podcast, watching TV or YouTube

If you’re watching an interview.

• In a group or panel discussion
• In an argument or debate

If you’re watching the news

• If you want to spot a lie

If you want to spot a scam

• If you’re presented with statistics
• Critical thinking about your life

Let’s begin:

• Is this an argument, a claim, a belief, an opinion, or a fact?

When you’re presented with information, whether it’s something you’re reading, watching or listening to, ask yourself:

• How do you know it’s a fact?
• What evidence exists to support this “fact”?
• Has this “fact” been proven?
• Do the majority of experts on the subject agree that this is a fact? Is there an expert consensus on this fact? If not, why not?
• Is this an ordinary or extraordinary claim?
• Do the majority of experts agree with this claim? Or is it contentious?
• What is the source of this claim?
• Who is making this claim?
• Is this person an authority or expert?
• How reliable is this source?
• What are the best arguments in support of this claim?
• What do the harshest critics against this position say?
• What arguments do skeptics of this position give?
• Has this claim already been debunked?
• Is this evidence good enough to accept the arguers assertions?
• Would this evidence stand up in court?
• Or is the arguer/author/speaker making assertions without evidence?
• What is the strongest evidence against this claim?
• Is there more confirming or disconfirming evidence?
• Is the expert consensus (if there is one) for or against this claim? Why?
• Do the majority of experts agree or disagree with this claim? Why?
• How can we verify or falsify this claim?
• A statement may be true, but is it relevant? Why?
• To what degree? To what extent?
• Under what conditions?
• In what context or circumstances?
• This claim is 100% true
• This claim is 100% false
• This claim is mostly true, partly false
• This claim is mostly false, partly true
• This claim is half true, half false
• Remember: There are degrees of “rightness” and “wrongness”. Statements are rarely 100% true or 100% false
• What further claims does this claim logically entail?
• Which of my beliefs would I have to change if I were to accept this claim?
• If this is an argument, is it deductive or inductive?
• If an argument is deductive, is it sound, valid, invalid, or unsound?
• If an argument is inductive, is it cogent, strong, weak, or unsound?
• How do you know this?
• How did you determine this?
• What evidence or proof do you have for this claim?
• What is their background?
• What makes them qualified to speak on this subject?
• Are they an expert in the field?
• On what basis is the author or speaker an authority or expert on the subject, or at least credible?
• Are they conservative or liberal?
• Atheist or religious?
• Feminist or MGTOW?
• (No author/speaker is completely neutral, unbiased and objective)
• When was the article, book, podcast, video etc., written or recorded? Is it possibly outdated? Is there a more recent up-to-date version available?
• Why did the author write this article/book?
• Why is the speaker giving this talk? What is their motivation?
• What is the purpose of this information? Why was it created?
• Why did I choose to read/watch/listen to it?
• Who benefits from this information? Why? How?
• Is this information relevant to you? If so, how? Why do you need to know this? How does it affect you personally?
• What are the authors/speakers main arguments and assertions? What is their philosophy? What are their main points?
• Is the author/speaker arguing for anything controversial? If so, there are likely to be good counterarguments on the other side
• Anonymous authorities aka “weasel words” e.g. “experts say…” “scientists say…” “studies show…”
• Deductive or inductive reasoning
• Expert opinion
• Expert consensus
• Randomized controlled trials
• Scientific studies
• Scientific consensus
• Or are they making assertions without evidence?
• What is the strongest evidence in support of these assertions? Is this evidence good enough to accept the authors/speakers conclusions? Would it stand up in court?
• What is the strongest evidence against these assertions?
• What might be another equally valid interpretation of the evidence or study results?
• What conclusions does the author/speaker want you to draw? What do they want you to think/believe/understand/do?
• Is the author/speaker/news station trying to push a narrative? e.g. “Diversity”, “Gender pay gap”, “Immigration”?
• Do you agree with the authors/speakers assertions? Why/why not? Anything you disagree with?
• Do you agree with the authors/speakers philosophy? Why/why not? Anything you disagree with?
• Do you agree with the authors/speakers “facts” and description of “reality”? Why/why not? Anything you disagree with?
• Do you agree with the authors/speakers arguments and rationale? Why/why not? Anything you disagree with?
• Are there any fallacies in the authors/speakers argument or rationale? If so, what?
• Does the author/speaker address counterarguments, disconfirming evidence, objections etc.? If so, how effectively do they rebut these points?
• If the author/speaker provides a “rule”, are there any exceptions to the rule that are not explained or accounted for?
• Do you agree with the authors/speakers conclusions? Why/why not? (You might agree with their arguments and rationale but not with their conclusions) Are they backed up by sufficient evidence? Or is the author/speaker jumping to conclusions too quickly from insufficient evidence?
• Are there any other equally valid conclusions or interpretations that could have been drawn from the evidence, or any other competing theories with better explanations for the evidence? If so, what?
• What is the perspective of the author/speaker? Do they seem like an insider or outsider? Why?
• Whose perspective is this information presented from? America’s or someone else’s? Conservative or liberal? Men or Women? Gen X, Y or Z?
• What perspectives/viewpoints are not represented here? What other perspectives might be equally valid, or worth looking into?
• What would (person) say about it?
• What would (group) say about it?
• Is there better evidence for one perspective/viewpoint than another?
• Is the author/speaker presenting you with both sides of the story – or only one?
• How has the author/speaker framed the information or story?
• Is the author/speaker embellishing or sensationalizing the story for dramatic effect? Do you think the story really took place the way the author/speaker tells it?
• What assumptions is the author/speaker making? What does the author/speaker have to believe is true before the rest of their argument makes sense?
• What are the implications of the authors/speakers argument? If this is true, what else must be true?
• What are the main problems the author/speaker is trying to solve? What solutions do they propose?
• Do you agree with the authors/speakers proposed solutions? Can you think of even better solutions to these problems?
• Has the author/speaker identified the real problem/s, or only a symptom of the problem?
• Is the author/speakers analysis or solution to the problem or situation oversimplified or incomplete? What needs to be unpacked or expanded upon?
• Is the author/speaker engaged in oversimplified black and white thinking as if something “always” or “never” happens, or as if “everyone” or “no one” should think/believe/do something, or as if something was right/wrong, true/false, correct/incorrect, without any grey areas in between?
• Are you engaged in black and white thinking, as if “everything” or “nothing” the author/speaker says is true? Or are you judging the validity of the information line by line, sentence by sentence, claim by claim, realizing that some parts could be true, and other parts false?
• Is the author/speaker emotional reasoning? Is it facts over feelings, or feels over reals?
• How would you describe the author/speakers tone? Dogmatic? Overconfident? Emotive? Pay attention not only to what  is said, but  how it’s said. How does the tone affect your response to the speech/text?
• Is the author/speaker using emotive language/tonality, and/or dramatic images or video, in an attempt to alarm, scare or outrage you?
• Is the author/speaker guilty of magical or superstitious thinking? Is there a lot of talk of “the law of attraction”, “miracles”, “soul mates” etc.?
• Does the author/speaker treat their opponents charitably and fairly? Do they treat the other side as intelligent people with a difference of opinion/perspective? Or do they demonize them as “crazy”, “dangerous”, “evil”, “dumb”, “stupid”, “racist”, “sexist”, “homophobic”, “transphobic” etc.?
• Does the author/speaker seem intellectually honest? Trustworthy? Why/why not?
• Is the author/speaker trying to be objective in their analysis and critique? Perfect objectivity isn’t possible, but are they even trying to be impartial, unbiased and objective?
• Yes: Be careful you’re not automatically believing everything they have to say without evidence, and letting them do your thinking for you
• No: Be careful you’re not automatically dismissing everything they have to say because you don’t like them (Remember: Examine the statement – not the speaker)
• Yes: Beware because you’re more likely to believe it whether it’s true or not
• No: Beware because you’re more likely to dismiss it whether it’s true or not
• The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth
• Half-truths and holding something back
• Straight up lying
• Is the author/speaker misquoting people, or taking quotes out of context?
• Did the person really say …? Is this a real quote/tweet? Or has the person been misquoted or quoted out of context? Is this a fake tweet?
• How are you going to use this information? What are you going to do with it? How are you going to put it into practice? How will it make a difference to your life?
• What is the purpose of this interview? Is it to educate or entertain the audience? Is it to promote a product or service?
• Who is the interviewee? Why is this person being interviewed?
• When did this interview take place? Is this information possibly outdated and no longer relevant?
• Is the interviewer asking the interviewee mostly softball or hardball questions?
• Is the interviewer asking the interviewee a lot of leading, loaded or gotcha questions? Do they seem to be trying to lead or trap the interviewee? e.g. “Yeah, but isn’t it true that…”, “Yeah, but don’t you think…”, “Yeah, but what about…”
• Is the interviewer really listening to the interviewee? Are they making a real effort to try to understand the interviewee and their position, or are they simply trying to promote or condemn it?
• Is the interviewer deliberately trying to make the interviewee look bad? e.g. Are they being overly disagreeable or standoffish? Do they only ask hardball or gotcha questions and then interrupt the interviewee mid-sentence with another difficult question every time the interviewee starts to give a good answer?
• Does the interviewer interrupt or cut off the interviewee if they start talking about anything controversial, or if they start talking about anything that doesn’t align with the narrative of the network e.g. anti-abortion, pro-gun or pro-Trump comments?
• Has the interview been edited to make the interviewee look bad, to paint them in a negative light?
• What additional questions would you ask the interviewee that the interviewer didn’t ask?

If you’re watching a group or panel discussion

If you’re watching a group discussion or debate, especially on a contentious topic e.g. abortion or gun control:

• Who are the panel members? What makes these people authorities or experts on the subject?
• Are both sides of the debate equally represented with intelligent people? Or is one side represented by heavyweights and the other side lightweights?
• Is there an equal distribution of liberal and conservative pundits? Or is it a majority liberal panel with a token conservative? (or vice versa)
• Does the host seem biased towards one side over the other? Is the host picking sides and showing their approval/disapproval of one side?
• Is the audience showing an obvious bias to one side of the debate? Are they only applauding/booing one side of the debate?
• Is the host giving more airtime, credibility and/or respect to one side?
• Is the host trying to make one side look bad, ignorant or stupid?

In an argument or a debate

If you’re in an argument or a debate, or watching one:

• Is this an argument or an assertion? If it’s an argument, is it deductive, inductive or abductive? Is it sound or cogent? Valid or invalid? Strong or weak?
• Are all of the premises true and correct? Do all of the premises necessarily lead to the conclusion? Are there any unjustified leaps of logic?
• Am I clear on how each word is being defined in the argument?
• Is someone attempting to redefine words e.g. “rational”, “reasonable”,   “racist” etc., to support their preferred conclusion?
• Is someone trying to shift the burden of proof? Note: The burden of proof is the obligation to provide evidence to support one’s assertion e.g. “You are guilty” and it is always on the one making the claim – not the other way around
• Has this argument already been debunked?
• Is someone making a PRATT? (Point refuted a thousand times)
• Is this a strawman or steelman argument?
• Is this the best argument in support of …?
• What are the best arguments in support of …?
• What are the best arguments against …?
• What is the strongest evidence in support of …?
• What is the strongest evidence against …?
• Is the preponderance of evidence for or against …? Is there more confirming or disconfirming evidence?
• Is the expert consensus (if there is one) for or against …? Why?
• Do the majority of experts agree or disagree with …? Why?
• Are there any fallacies in this argument or rationale? If so, what? (Fallacies don’t necessarily make an argument invalid but it’s still good to be aware of them)
• Am I 100% certain I understand my opponent’s position? Am I sure? Could I argue my opponent’s position convincingly? Could I steelman it? Could I pass the Ideological Turing Test? If not, you don’t understand it. Don’t argue for or against a position until you fully understand it
• What are the strongest points of my opponent’s argument?
• What are the weakest points of my opponent’s argument?
• What are the weakest points of my argument?
• What is the strongest evidence against my position?
• What are the best arguments against my position?
• How would I attack my argument if I had to?
• What do I like about my opponent’s position, and what do I dislike about mine?
• What aspects of my argument are likely to be unconvincing to those that don’t already agree with me?
• Does my opponent seem intellectually honest? Are they arguing in good faith? Are they willing to follow the evidence where it leads? Are they willing to admit when they’re mistaken or wrong? Am I?
• Does my opponent seem more interested in “winning” the argument or discovering the truth?

Ask the other person:

• How did you determine that?
• How did you come to that conclusion?
• What do you know that I don’t?
• Where am I wrong in my argument or rationale?
• What evidence would it take to change your mind, to convince you otherwise?
• Are these your real reasons for believing X? If all of these reasons were proven wrong, would you still continue to believe X? If yes, let’s not even worry about these reasons because they’re not the real reasons you believe X. What are the real reasons you believe X?
• Why do you think other smart people aren’t convinced by the same arguments and evidence that you are?
• Associated Press News
• The Bureau of Investigative Journalism
• The Economist
• Pro Publica
• What is the bias of this news station? Are they liberal or conservative? You can check the bias of a particular news station here:  Media Bias Fact Check
• Fear mongering
• Gossip/rumors
• Hatchet jobs
• Outrage porn
• Puff pieces
• Is this really the most important “news” of the day? Why is this story being prioritized over everything else that happened today?
• Why do I need to know this? How does it affect me?
• What is the purpose of this news story? Why was it created? What does the news station want you to think/believe/do?
• When was this news story published? Is this information current, or is it outdated and/or no longer relevant?
• Has this story already been debunked?
• Truth or Fiction
• The Washington Post Fact Checker
• Hoax Slayer

Check these websites to see if a claim or story has already been debunked, but don’t rely on any of these websites to do your thinking for you, because they may mislead you with their own political biases

• Has this story or headline been written to educate, entertain or infuriate you?
• Is the headline an accurate summary of the information – or is it just clickbait?
• Do the photos fit the story?
• Has an unflattering photo been deliberately chosen to paint the subject e.g. Trump in a bad light?
• Is it likely that this story has been embellished or sensationalized?
• How has this information been framed or spun?
• Are you being presented with both sides of the story – or only one?
• Whose perspective is this presented from? Conservative or liberal? America’s or someone else’s? Men or Women? What other perspectives might be equally valid, or worth looking into?
• What do the other news stations say? e.g. if you watch CNN or MSNBC, what does CBS or FOX say? (and vice versa)
• Are you being presented with facts or opinions?  If “facts”, on what basis are they “facts”? What evidence exists to support these “facts”?
• Do the media’s “facts” and description of “reality” seem accurate? Why/why not? Anything you disagree with?
• Did someone really say that? Or have they been misquoted or quoted out of context?
• Does the domain look credible?
• Is this satire?

How to spot a liar

• Does it seem like this person is lying or telling the truth? Why? Are they a known liar?
• Is this person motivated to deceive me? Do they stand to gain something by lying to me? What might this person gain by lying to me?
• Dodge the question
• Ignore the question
• Attack you for asking the question, “How could you ask me a question like that!”
• Refuse to answer the question
• Answer a different question
• Turn the question back on you, “I could ask you the same thing!”
• Give short one word answers
• Give vague or ambiguous answers
• Talk around in circles without answering the question
• If you ask the person the same question multiple times using different words, do they give different answers and contradict themselves? Do the details in their story keep changing?
• Uncomfortable
• Does the person speak slower or faster or louder than normal when answering your questions?
• Does the person hesitate, take long pauses, or talk slower than normal when answering your questions? (maybe in an attempt to think on the spot and buy time?)
• Do they avoid eye contact and/or cover their mouth when answering questions?
• Do they start sentences and not finish them, or change topics and start talking about something else mid-sentence?
• Does the tone or volume of their voice change? Does their voice crack and/or go higher than normal? Do they cough repetitively and clear their throat, or stammer or stutter?
• Do they blink rapidly, or not at all, or have a fake or nervous smile?
• Do they roll their lips back or purse them?
• Does their body language seem uncomfortable?
• Do their emotions and facial expressions match their words? When they say they’re “good” or “okay”, do they seem good or okay?
• Does it seem like they’re in a hurry to change the subject?
• This person is telling “The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth”
• This person is telling half-truths and holding something back
• This person is playing dumb and pretending to know less than they do
• This person is straight up lying
• What does your gut/intuition say? Does it seem like they’re lying or telling you the truth? (or both)
• Is a stranger emailing, texting or calling you out of the blue claiming something too good to be true? e.g. you’ve entitled to a large inheritance – and all you need to do is provide bank details, or pay taxes or transfer costs? Or that you’ve won a prize in a competition or lottery you’ve never entered?
• Is someone calling you claiming to be from your bank, gas/electricity provider, phone company etc. and asking you to verify your personal contact details, password, bank details, credit card number etc.? maybe due to “unauthorized” or “suspicious activity” on your account?
• Does a google search on the exact wording of the email, text or ad reveal a scam?
• Does the email contain any grammatical or spelling errors, or overly formal language?
• Does the email ask you to click a link or open an attachment?
• If you’re buying something online is the seller asking you to make payment with an insecure payment option? e.g. direct bank transfer, money order, or a cryptocurrency like Bitcoin?
• In an online dating scenario, is someone professing strong feelings for you after only a few encounters?
• Does the person have a sense of urgency? Are they claiming to need money urgently for a personal or family emergency, medical attention, or to come see you?
• Is someone using pressure tactics, and trying to make you feel guilty or selfish for not buying their product or service, or donating to a charity?
• Is someone trying to manipulate you with sleazy sales/self-help seminar type questions e.g. “Do you want to be rich or poor?” “A winner or a loser?” “A success or a failure?”
• Does it seem too good to be true? Does it seem like a scam? If so, it probably is
• What does your gut/intuition say?

Statistics questions

“There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics.” – Benjamin Disraeli

Ask yourself the following questions whenever you’re presented with any statistic:

• Who paid for the study or survey?
• Who conducted the study or survey? Does it come from a credible source?
• Why was the study or survey done? What is the likely agenda?
• When was the study done? Is the information outdated? Is it still relevant? Times change. Public opinion changes
• Who was polled? Conservatives or liberals? Men or women? Asians, Blacks, Hispanics or Whites? What age group? Gen X, Y or Z? How diverse was the group?
• How large was the sample size? How many people were surveyed? Is the sample size large enough? Is it qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods? Was the sample size sufficient?  Was it  representative enough of the wider population? Did the participants come from different cultural and social backgrounds? How generalizable are the findings?
• What are the statistics measuring?
• How long did the information take to gather? Was it a 2 week survey? A 6 month study? A 10 year study?
• What questions were asked?
• How was each question asked? Were the questions leading or loaded or worded in such a way as to encourage a certain answer?
• What is the context of the survey?
• How was the research done? Phone, email, social media, face to face?
• What is the number as a percentage? e.g. 55, 000 Americans is 0.0167% of the population
• Is the percentage statistically insignificant? e.g. 500, 000 Americans might be addicted to Heroin, but as a percentage that’s ‘only’ (any number above one is obviously too high) 0.153% of Americans
• Do the author’s conclusions and the headline logically follow from the data? Or are they reading too much into the data? Find the raw data if you can. Don’t just accept and believe headlines for statistics. Make sure it says what the headline says it says. Statistical headlines are often used to suggest things the data doesn’t actually say
• Is the research confusing causation and correlation? Check out: spurious correlations for a perfect visual example of why correlation does not equal causation
• Has this study been peer reviewed by experts?
• Beware of unsourced statistics

“I can prove anything by statistics except the truth.” – George Canning 

Critical thinking about your life questions

“The unexamined life is not worth living” – Socrates

You can apply critical thinking to the books you read, the podcasts you listen to, the information and “news” presented to you, but ultimately, what better place to apply critical thinking skills than to your own life?

• Which biases and fallacies are you most guilty of?
• Where/when do you most often fail to practice critical thinking?
• What are your sacred cows? What shouldn’t be questioned? What is off limits? God? Jesus? Buddha? Krishna? Muhammad? The Bible? The Bhagavad Gita? The Quran? Your Guru?
• What do you need to start/stop doing?
• What do you need to do more/less of?
• What are your best/worst habits?
• Where do you waste the most time?
• Who/what should you cut out of your life?
• What one thing, if you were to take action on it, would produce the greatest difference in your life?
• A year from now, what will you wish you had started today?

Recommended reading

For additional critical thinking questions check out:

Critical Reading: The Ultimate Guide

The Socratic Method

50 Critical thinking tips